Seated Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) with one leg pendant

Information

Data

Period

China, Tang dynasty, 8th century

Materials and techniques

Gilt bronze

Size

Overall H.31.2

Explanation

Statues of bosatsu ( bodhisattva ) sitting leisurely with his right foot down prevailed during the most vibrant period of Tang Dynasty China (8th century). This sculpture looks particularly natural in its expression of robes and jewelry. The realistic expression of the statue owes greatly to the casting technique. It shows a stout body, unrestrained expression, relaxed and an overall well-balanced composition. Such characteristics are observed in the statue of bosatsu which had been treasured at Hōbodai-in Temple in Kyoto. The Tang dynasty style had a profound influence on Japanese Buddhist sculptures of the early Heian period.